Staying safe while ice fishing

WATERLOO (KWWL) Relaxing, fun and a way to enjoy the outdoors. That's how Travis Crew describes ice fishing.

Crew set up his tent on Wyth Lake at George Wyth Memorial State Park, hoping to get some bites.

Whether you're an avid ice fisherman or just want to give the sport a try, make sure you have a fishing license and always be careful.

"Let people know where you are and always be really careful, just because the ice was safe yesterday doesn't mean the ice is always safe in that spot the next day," said George Wyth Park Manager Lori Eberhard.

Eberhard said the ice is six inches thick at Wyth Lake, which should be okay for a limited number of people.

She recommends wearing a life jacket or a coat with one built in. Also, take a rope with you and a stick or something to test the ice before you walk on it.

Travis Crew always checks the ice first.

"I drill holes on my way out to check the ice thickness and slowly work my way out," said Crew.

No matter how cold it gets or how thick the ice is, Eberhard said the DNR will never tell people it's "safe" to be on the ice. Each person needs to decide for himself or herself and fish at your own risk.